The group, which interviewed mayoral and council candidates focusing heavily on an alternative plan for a "congestion-free" network of public transport ahead of new roads, rated Mr Brown "a competent champion for getting Auckland's transport moving in the right direction".

But it found Mr Minto "overly focused on creating free public transport without showing a convincing understanding of implications."

It marked Mr Palino down for weak support of its network plan, despite his showing enthusiasm for less reliance on more motorways.

Ms Bright's E grade followed an alleged failure to answer most of the group's 14 questions.